Deb Ruggiero named Legislator of the Year

State Rep. Deb Ruggiero has been named Legislator of the Year by the Rhode Island State Nurses Association.

The organization, which is dedicated to the promotion, advancement and protection of nursing, selected Ruggiero for the honor because she “has been a leader in addressing health-care issues, such as adequate access to affordable health care, the environment as it impacts health, and social justice as it relates to parity of adequate and affordable health care.”

Said Executive Director Donna M. Policastro, “She has always been a supporter of nursing since she joined the General Assembly. One of the things about Deb is that if she has a question about a nursing issue, she’ll always check with us first. She’s always sure to gather information before she speaks.”

“It’s truly an honor to be chosen by the Rhode Island State Nurses Association for this award,” said Ruggiero. “Nurses are so vital to public health. Anything that strengthens their profession also increases the quality of the health care available to Rhode Islanders, so I’m proud to support RISNA’s work.”